State budget promises millions for Hurstbridge rail line duplication

THE duplication of the Hurstbridge line will start later this year after the State Government promised more than $140 million for the major project.

THE long-awaited duplication of the Hurstbridge railway line will start before the year is out, with the State Government promising more than $140 million for the major project.

The duplication of the century-old track between Heidelberg and Rosanna railway stations is part of the $3.2 billion for Victorian public transport infrastructure projects in the 2016-17 State Budget released today.

Health was also a winner with $40.8 million allocated for the improvement of Austin Hospital’s infrastructure.

Heidelberg Leader previously reported the State Government would be investing in Banyule’s education this budget with $5.5 million for Melbourne Polytechnic, $2 million for Ivanhoe Primary and $680,000 for Rosanna Golf Links Primary School.

Ivanhoe Labor MP Anthony Carbines said the duplication of the Hurstbridge line was expected to start later this year and be finished by 2019.

Anthony Carbines

“It’s a very significant project which will bring 1.2km of track (from the 1800s) into the 21st century,” Mr Carbines said.

“It will allow us to run extra services between Greensborough and the city.”

The Lower Plenty Rd, Rosanna, grade separation, which was an election commitment, will also be completed along with the duplication, Mr Carbines said.

While the grade separation money had not been allocated yet, Mr Carbines said it would be once the design was finalised.

“It makes sense to co-ordinate the projects and minimise disruption to the community,” Mr Carbines said.

Banyule Cr Tom Melican said the duplication of the Hurstbridge line was the council’s highest priority in its public transport advocacy program.

“I think the duplication is well overdue and will really give public transport a boost in the northern suburbs,” Cr Melican said.

“I know our local MP (Mr Carbines) has been working very hard to achieve this.”

He said other announcements that would impact Banyule included $588 million to extend the Mernda rail line and $10.2 million to upgrade Bolton St in Eltham.